claude-md

2 questions

AI

How do I run my first Claude Code session?

Open Claude inside a real repo, ask one concrete task, read the diff before approving, and use /clear when context drifts. Most beginner pain comes from overstuffed CLAUDE.md, mixed-task sessions, and rubber-stamping edits.
AI

Why isn't my CLAUDE.md / settings.json taking effect?

Check three things in order: which file Claude is actually loading (precedence runs user → project → project-local → CLI args → managed), whether your edit is shadowed by a higher layer, and whether the change needs a session restart. Most no-effect cases are precedence, not bugs.